Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleActor Michael Keating has died (Flickr/@auz)Michael Keating, the actor renowned for his roles in EastEnders and the sci-fi series Blake’s 7, has passed away at the age of 79. He was known for playing Reverend Stevens in the BBC soap EastEnders between 2005 and 2017. Keating also starred as Vila Restal in all 52 episodes of Blake’s 7 from 1978 to 1981, a role he later reprised in audio series. His extensive career included appearances in other notable series such as Doctor Who (including audio projects), Yes Minister, Casualty, and Midsomer Murders, alongside significant stage work. Tributes have been shared online by fans, former collaborators, and publishers like Cult Edge, remembering him as a 'wonderful man' and a 'genuinely lovely man'. In fullMichael Keating death: Popular Eastenders and Blake’s 7 star dies aged 79Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Actor Michael Keating appeared as Reverend Stevens from 2005 to 2017.

Actor appeared as Reverend Stevens in 50 episodes of the BBC soap between 2005 and 2017

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Michael Keating, the British actor known for his roles in \

British actor Michael Keating, renowned for his roles in Blake's 7 and EastEnders, has died at 79, his agent confirmed on May 21, 2026.